| The explosion of genetic data since the completion of the human genome sequence, on June 23, 2000, will impact the delivery of healthcare services for the next several decades. Many healthcare professionals will be impacted by new demands and they are not trained or prepared. The issues that arise when there is an expansion of genetic services in clinical settings are complex and require formal training. Most healthcare professionals have had limited or no training in these issues and have received information only from the media, thus making them unable to meet the demands of their patients. As patients require guidance regarding the management of their genetic concerns, healthcare professionals will have to be prepared to respond through increased training in primary curricula and in continued medical education in human genetics. This project examines the existing attitudes and competency levels of primary care physicians regarding genetic services in their practice settings. |
